James Weldon Norris

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas Technical College in 1952 and his Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Southern Methodist University. During his education, he was a member of the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society and Kappa Mu Epsilon (a mathematics fraternity). He achieved his childhood dream of designing airplanes; Jim worked as a Civil Engineer, Defense Contractor, and a Software Specialist for General Dynamics, where he did design and testing work for significant products like the F-111 and F-16.

In addition to his passion for his work, Jim had many hobbies and skills. He had a great love for dogs, and met his late wife, Carole, of 39 years through the Shetland Sheepdog Club. Jim also enjoyed photography, woodworking, genealogy, gem faceting, anything mechanical, and traveling. He traveled frequently to Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain National Parks. He had a lifelong love for music, especially opera and classical music.

Jim was a member of camera clubs, the Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Toastmasters, and Tau Beta Pi – an honorary engineering fraternity. Most of all, he enjoyed being a part of his family. He had a great love for his wife and children, and enjoyed watching his kids play sports.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Carole (Elrod) Norris in 1999. He is survived by his three children, James Patrick (Sue) Norris of Plano, Texas, Kim Norris of Wautauga, Texas, and Marshall (Cynthia) Norris of Sacramento, California; and grandson, Zachary Norris.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 20, 2017 from 6-8pm in Ted Dickey West Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at 10am in the funeral home. Interment will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park, Denton, Texas. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. To send condolences or share a fond memory, please visit www.teddickeywestfuneral.com.